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When you think about it, buying a roof is a pretty big commitment. This thing protects your home. It shelters you and your family. So, it’s important to make the most informed decision possible when purchasing a new roof. The average life span of a roof is 8 to 10 years in Oklahoma. So, once your roof is put on your house, it’s on there for a good amount of time.

However, that life span of your roof may be shortened depending on whether it’s hit by a hail storm or not. For a regular residential roof, this could mean utter destruction, but for an impact resistant roof, it could be a very different story.

Impact resistant roofs use stronger, more flexible shingles. This can help prevent significant damage in regards to high winds and hail storms. We have seen the proof when we traveled to Yukon to replace a client’s roof after a major hail storm. We didn't have to replace any impact resistant roofs, because they had not sustained any serious damage.

As you might expect, these roofs are more expensive than traditional roofs. However, you won't even see the higher cost if it is covered by insurance. The impact resistant roofs also have the ability to lower insurance premiums as much as $500, depending on the insurance carrier.

Really, the only downside to the impact resistant roof is that the gutters may still sustain damage from hail, which would mean you have to pay to replace the guttering yourself. The cost can vary around $500 to $800 depending on the size of the house, and the extent of the damage.

When working with insurance regarding the installation of a new roof of any kind, always communicate with your agent and determine what exactly you will be responsible for when storms head for your roof.

And if you are interested in the impact resistant roof, do not hesitate to give us a call.

Have you ever considered going off grid? If you’re like many others, the idea of disconnecting from the utility company appeals from you. But you may be concerned because it’s a huge step.

Believe it or not, you can actually go off the grid incrementally. Here are three small ways you can dip your toes in before fully committing.

1. Rain Barrels

First, purchase rain barrels. These rain barrels collect rain water due to the placement under the gutters. You can hook your hose up to these rain barrels which will cut down the dependence on city water, or even cut the dependence out completely depending on how much water you have stored.

Rain barrels may not sound appealing due to their lack of cosmetic appeal, but think again! We’ve installed rain barrels that blend in with the home.

2. Solar Panels

Second, try out solar panels. Rather than trying to power your entire home with them, start out by powering something small.

Try a solar powered cell phone charge, or even a more general solar powered USB charger. Or, if you enjoy building things, there are all sorts of do-it-yourself projects online to inspire you, including some projects with instructions.

3. Bat House

Finally, an unusual option is to get a a bat house. It’s basically a small box with a hole in it that is hung in your tree. Bats help cut down on mosquitos, and this is a great way to avoid using chemicals for pest control.

While a true off-grid house can operate without traditional utility services, these small ways can make the transition easier. And if you find out it’s not for you, you haven’t invested too much.